The Best of Sam Cooke, NOT2CD386, This new compilation comprises CD1 a selection of 26 songs including all the hits associated with Sam Cooke. The period covered is 1957 (5); 1958 (4); 1959 (8) & 1960 (9) tracks with a total running time of approx 66 minutes. The recordings are from the Keen Records and RCA label. CD2 has for the first time on CD the RCA albums "Swing Low" with orchestra under Sammy Lowe and has 3 of Sam Cooke's compositions included plus his debut album "Cooke's Tour" with orchestra under Glenn Osser and both albums date from 1960, recorded in New York City and were originally released as LPM 2293 & LPM2221. The running time for this CD is approx 72 minutes. Liner notes by Michael Heatley and the inner liner displays the covers of the 2 RCA albums. "Swing Low" is quite a contrast to the more standards orientated "Cooke's Tour" and yet the common thread is the ability of Sam Cooke to give his interpretation of the song (gospel, R&B, soul & middle of the road). Overall sound quality very good and well presented by Not Now and another excellent addition to their catalogue. This release should interest both collectors and those who want a rounded collection of Sam Cooke titles.

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Tracklist:

CD1: The Best Of 1. Wonderful World 2. Only Sixteen 3. Chain Gang 4. You Send Me 5. Sad Moon 6. Everybody Loves To Cha Cha Cha 7. Summertime 8. (I Love You) For Sentimental Reasons 9. Steal Away 10. Venus 11. Ol' Man River 12. Win Your Love For Me 13. You Were Made For Me 14. The Little Things You Do 15. Unchained Melody 16. They Can't Take That Away From Me 17. There, I've Said It Again 18. She's Funny That Way 19. The Great Pretender 20. Blue Moon 21. Cry 22. I Gotta Right To Sing The Blues 23. Hey There! 24. Desire Me 25. Let's Go Steady Again 26. I'll Come Running Back To You